About 3 months ago I was doing a pretty standard training run when I tore my achilles tendonitis. I went down like a sack of potatoes bouncing off the back of the delivery truck. It was painful. I had a limp for months. I put on 18 lbs since I eat like I’m always in training for the next race. TLDR it sucked.
I barely waited the allotted time the doctor recommended since I didn’t want a new scar. I have enough of those. I’m very slowly getting back into training. TLDR it still sucks.
Before I get back to complaining let’s get to meat of the matter and say I’m glad to be active again. The mental impact of sweating out and the sores of the muscles is worth its weight in gold.
Now I’ll get on my soapbox. Exercise doesn’t just improve your body, it boosts your mind and emotions too. Regular movement releases endorphins that lower stress and anxiety while improving focus and emotional balance. Over time, this creates resilience and a more positive outlook on daily life.
Don’t just take my word for it, research from the Mayo Clinic and Harvard Health shows that even 30 minutes of moderate activity a day can lift mood, improve sleep, and reduce symptoms of depression. A small daily commitment can create powerful mental and emotional benefits.
The build up to being back to standard training is slow, but it gets there. If you haven’t exercised in a long while or ever just start with a walk slowly making it longer until you’re ready to add to it. You’ll thank yourself for the hope it gives you. You’ll thank yourself for being the god your children see you as.
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